Audi debuts Q8 plug-in hybrid SUV concept

Audi has ambitious plans to expand its electric car lineup beyond today’s A3 e-tron hatchback. While Audi has announced plans to release a fully electric SUV that will rival the Tesla Model X, Audi is also giving the world a preview of a new hybrid flagship SUV with the debut of the Q8 concept.

The Audi Q8 concept made its debut last week at the Detroit Auto Show and is a preview of the production version that is expected to debut sometime within the next year. While the Q7 is designed to seat up to seven passengers and their cargo, the flagship Q8 is a different take with its more coupe-like roofline. At 16.5 feet long, the Q8 concept is about the same length as the Q7, but since it only has four seats, the amount of space for the four passengers is ample.

The Q8 concept is powered by a plug-in hybrid system that combines a 3.0L V6 engine with an electric motor that generate a combined 442 horsepower and 516 lb-ft. of torque. The system also uses an eight-speed tiptronic transmission to send the power to the ground. The Audi Q8 concept accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 5.4 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph. It can also travel up to 37 miles in electric mode.

Audi hasn’t announced if the production version of the Q8 will be offered with the plug-in hybrid powertrain from the concept, but lets hope so.